IBM in research pact with Taiwan to deliver healthcare via cloud computing

IBM as entered in to an agreement with Taiwan's ministry of economic affairs for a research collaboration that will focus on using technologies -- including cloud computing, analytics and mobile devices -- to advance wellness-centric healthcare that manages diseases more efficiently and effectively to keep people healthier.

Most healthcare systems worldwide are "sick care" models, whose primary objective is to fund treatment when people have health problems, with little emphasis on disease prevention and wellness.

Taiwan is known for its technology-driven modernised healthcare system. However, the ageing population in Taiwan and the challenges associated with chronic disease management provide an opportunity for Taiwan to view preventive care as an integral component of the healthcare system.

The IBM collaboratory -- where IBM researchers co-locate with a university, government, or commercial partner and share skills, assets, and resources to achieve a common research goal -- will bring together expertise in the areas of services, privacy, data management, analytics, and healthcare device management.

IBM says that initially, the research will focus on projects that demonstrate and optimise the benefits of connected wellness services in prevention, early diagnosis and management of chronic disease.

"The project will help not only the citizens of Taiwan, but also create new technologies and business processes that can be used to help keep people healthier worldwide," IBM said in a statement.